Björkliden is the village that sits above Abisko, high on the slope with a sweeping view over the lake and the mountains. This day trip links the two places and adds lunch, which makes the day feel like a proper excursion rather than a drive. You travel west from Kiruna through snowy mountain country, stop in Abisko for the national park landscape, continue to Björkliden for the view and a meal, and return in the afternoon or early evening. Björkliden is known as a ski and mountain-sports destination, with a mountain lodge and a handful of cafes. The panorama from the village includes Torneträsk, the mountains on the Norwegian border and, on clear days, the long white ribbon of the Ore Line railway. The trip offers a relaxed way to see two settlements and the scenery between them, with less hiking than a typical outdoor day and more variety than a single-stop excursion. Because lunch is part of the plan, it suits families and groups who like a defined structure.
How it works
The group meets in Kiruna and travels by vehicle with a guide, who explains the region's geography and history on the way. The first stop is usually Abisko, with a short walk or viewpoint. The group then continues to Björkliden for lunch and views, before returning to Kiruna with a chance to photograph the changing light.
What to know
The day is long and mostly spent in the vehicle or on short walks. Dress warmly and bring a hat, gloves and a scarf. Lunch may be a set menu, so mention dietary needs in advance. The weather in the mountains can change quickly, with wind and snow, and the operator may adjust the route if conditions require it.
The setting
The railway between Kiruna and Narvik was built to haul iron ore to the ice-free port on the Norwegian coast, and it still carries ore trains today alongside passenger services. The landscape along the route is among the most dramatic in Sweden, with lakes, glacial valleys and tall peaks. Björkliden itself was built as a mountain-sports village, and it remains popular with skiers and hikers.
Pairing
Choose this as a scenery day and follow it with a quiet evening, or combine it with an aurora tour on another night. If you prefer to stay in the mountains, Abisko and Björkliden both have accommodation, which turns the outing into a base for several nights.
Seasonal notes
In the depths of winter the day is short, so the light can already be fading as the group heads back, which makes the late-afternoon views especially atmospheric. In March and April the days stretch and the snow is bright, which is ideal for photographs. In summer the same trip becomes a green, lake-filled outing with hiking trails and long evenings. If you are travelling with friends who ski, Björkliden's slopes can be a topic for a later day, while the rest of the group takes the scenic route.
Remember that lunch in a mountain village can be busy, so a set menu and a reserved table are common, and the guide will usually manage the timing. Bring a camera, since the vista from the high village is one of the most photographed in the region. Ask about the stops in advance.
What to expect
The experience
A guided full-day trip from Kiruna to Abisko and Björkliden with a lunch stop and mountain viewpoints.
Best time
Winter for snow and skiing atmosphere, summer for hiking and long daylight.
How long
Roughly eight to ten hours.
Tips
Mention dietary needs when booking and wear layers for changing mountain weather.
Quick picks
- Best for
- Visitors who want mountain scenery with lunch included.
- Families
- A structured day with short walks, suitable for most ages.
- Couples
- A scenic day with a relaxed meal.
- Pair with
- An evening aurora tour or a quiet night in Kiruna.
- Time needed
- A full day.
Good questions
What is Björkliden?+
A small mountain village above Abisko with a lodge, cafes and ski slopes, known for its view over Torneträsk.
Is lunch included?+
The tour name says lunch is included. Check the menu and dietary options when you book.
How long is the drive?+
About an hour and a half each way between Kiruna and Abisko, plus the extra stretch to Björkliden.
Will we walk much?+
Only short walks. Wear boots with grip for icy ground.
Can I ski in Björkliden?+
Skiing is possible in the area during the season, but this tour is a sightseeing day, not a ski trip.